About Outfield Music, Food & Arts Festival
Outfield Music, Food & Arts Festival is an annual one-day outdoor festival set in the rolling hills of Te Awanga Downs, just south of Haumoana in Hawke’s Bay. It began in 2020 and has quickly become a high-profile local event that melds live music with gourmet food and interactive art. The festival site is a bucolic farm surrounded by vineyards, with the main stage sited on the native cricket oval (giving Outfield its name) and smaller stages tucked into forest clearings . Outfield is explicitly family-friendly and community-focused, highlighting Hawke’s Bay’s creative spirit. Organizers emphasize sustainability, local culture and a mentoring (“tukana–teina”) ethos that brings together experienced artists and emerging talent . The event has already earned recognition (for example it was a NZ Event Awards finalist in 2023), and is often described as one of New Zealand’s most distinctive indie festivals .
History and Origins
The inaugural Outfield Festival was held on 8 February 2020 after a successful launch announcement in late 2019 . From the start it showcased a mix of well-known Kiwi artists and rising regional acts. The first edition featured Ladi6 as a headliner, setting a high bar for quality and variety . In 2021 Outfield expanded to three stages and larger crowds; the lineup included icons like The Phoenix Foundation, singer-songwriter Nadia Reid and local legend Thomas Oliver . By 2022 and 2023 the festival was firmly established: artists ranged from international names (Australian DJ/producers, UK bass/hip-hop acts and more) to homegrown stars. For example, Outfield 2022 brought in Brisbane producer Young Franco and NZ rock veterans The Chills , while 2023 featured hip-hop trailblazers JessB and soulful DJ P-Money alongside local pop and electronic performers . The 2024 event marked "five years since its inception", headlined by multi-talented Kiwi musicians like Troy Kingi and David Dallas www.ticketfairy.com . Each year Outfield has grown modestly, adding festival camping options, food markets and art zones. Despite its youth, the festival has already become a Hawke’s Bay summer tradition that draws thousands of attendees from around New Zealand.
Events and Programming
Outfield is a daytime-to-evening festival usually held in the New Zealand summer (late January or February). Gates typically open around midday (for example, 2024’s event opened at 12:00pm ) and music runs well into the evening. The programming spans multiple stages and activities: the main Outfield Arena sits on the cricket field and hosts headline acts with a full stage production. Nearby, the “Art Valley” stage (hidden among trees) offers a smaller, funky vibe, and the “Dance Yard” provides an open area for DJs and electronic sets . In between performances, the site features roaming artists, sculptural installations and kids’ play zones – indeed “numerous places for children of all ages to play” are deliberately included . Food trucks and local vendor stalls line the site, turning the festival into a gourmet marketplace as well, with everything from barbecue, wood-fired pizza and Asian fusion to craft beer and Hawke’s Bay wine tastings www.ticketfairy.com . Many illustrate the region’s produce heritage – Outfield has been praised for turning the festival into a “true feast for the senses” with Hawke’s Bay cuisine at its core .
Musically, Outfield covers a broad range of genres. Past line-ups have included rock bands (e.g. The Chills, Tiny Ruins), reggae and soul (Troy Kingi, Rebellion), hip-hop (P-Money, JessB, Che Fu) and dance/electronic artists (local DJs like Aunty El or international producers like Young Franco and UK drum & bass legends) . The festival explicitly balances genres, genders and local vs international talent . Headliners have run the gamut from veteran New Zealand acts to rising stars: in 2023, younger musicians like Te Whanganui-a-Tara’s Julia Deans or India’s international rapper JessB shared the bill with more established performers . Community building is central to Outfield’s programming – alongside the main concert sets, organizers host art workshops, spoken word poetry and interactive installations to foster creativity for all ages. Notably, musicians who have played at Outfield often express appreciation for the friendly “positive/safe environment” that the festival cultivates for artists and fans www.ticketfairy.com . Offsite, the festival also organizes camping and shuttles (see “Getting There and Parking”), and it releases a polished after-movie each year to capture the vibe.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Outfield Festival are sold exclusively through the official festival website and affiliated ticketing partners (e.g. Flicket or Ticket Fairy). There is no walk-up box office on event day; you should purchase tickets well in advance, as the event frequently sells out. Sales typically begin several months before the festival (often announced around October–November). Pricing is tiered: earlybird/first-release fares are cheaper and sell out quickly. For example, 2024’s festival offered multiple waves of GA tickets (an adult “Second Innings” release was about NZ$134 plus fees www.ticketfairy.com ). Discount bundles are common: in past editions there have been group deals (a “Dream Team” pack for 5 adults at roughly $107 each) and family packs (2 adults + 1 youth) offered at a reduced per-ticket rate www.ticketfairy.com . Youth tickets (age 13–17) cost less than adult tickets (around $79 in 2023 www.ticketfairy.com ), but minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian on-site. Importantly, children 12 and under enter free www.ticketfairy.com . If you plan to attend, the strategy is to join the newsletter or follow Outfield’s social media so you get early alerts; once “Earlybird” tickets are gone (as they often are within days ) prices rise. All attendees will need valid ID at the gate (see Policies below), and no refunds are given for ticket holder errors or failure to follow ticket rules.
Seating and Layout
Outfield is held on open farm fields, so there are no fixed seats or reserved sections – it is a general admission festival. People watch performances standing on the lawn or seated on blankets or low chairs they bring. The main Outfield Arena (cricket field) is flat and very spacious, allowing people to spread out based on their preference. Because it’s an outdoor soundstage, the acoustic setup is quite powerful; attendees have noted that the sound system is state-of-the-art for an open-air event, with plenty of coverage across the field. If you want to sit, any spot on the grass behind the crowd can give you a good vantage – those closer to the stage will be louder, while the farther edges of the field and slight berms or blankets provide a bit of distance and grass seating. Many festivalgoers favor finding a spot under existing shade trees or towards the edges of the main field to escape midsummer sun. The forest-side “Art Valley” stage has a few clearings with small logs or platforms to sit on, making it intimate but unstructured. In general, the best view of any stage is just left-of-center, which concentrates the sound system; the edges of each lawn hear a more balanced mix. Late in the day the sunlight shifts, so positioning slightly east of center can avoid sun in your eyes. If loud volume is a concern, stay at least 10–20 meters back from the speaker stacks or around the back of the audience cone. Throughout the festival grounds, pathways and grass areas connect stages, food stalls and attractions, and everyone wanders freely between them. (Note: Some areas directly in front of the main stages can be intense for little children due to sound and crowd, so parents often station a bit back or at the sides.) Overall, the layout is simple: three main performance zones with open lawns, plus a kids’ zone and food court area in the middle.
Getting There and Parking
The festival address is 32 Gordon Road, Te Awanga, Hastings, Hawke’s Bay (off Te Awanga Road at the southern end of Haumoana). From Hastings or Napier, it’s about a 15–25 minute drive. Note that GPS systems may simply identify “Clifton / Te Awanga” but enter the above address to be precise. Public transit to Te Awanga is very limited – there is no direct train or shuttle service. The nearest Orbus bus stop is in Haumoana village (several kilometers away), so if using public transport you would need a taxi or a very long walk from there. Most attendees arrive by car or organized bus. IMPORTANT: parking near the site is extremely limited . The organizers strongly encourage car-pooling or using any festival shuttle buses available. (Outfield often arranges off-site camping with included festival bus transfer .) On event day, a small field adjacent to the venue serves as parking but fills up quickly; it operates on a first-come basis. Once that lot is full you may have to park along Gordon Road or other designated overflow areas, then walk in. Cars are not allowed beyond the lot. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are permitted at the entrance area – it’s wise to pre-arrange a pickup time or call a cab in advance as services can be slow that far out of town. Traffic can back up on Gordon Road in the hour before gates open (doors usually at 12pm ), so arriving early can secure a nearer parking spot. Pedestrians should use the concrete pavement along the road into the field entrance (walking on the road is unsafe ). After the festival ends (often around 10pm), traffic disperses towards Napier/Hastings; taxi ranks or private transfers will queue on Gordon Road just outside the exit. Given the difficulty of late-night transport, some people choose to stay overnight locally (see nearby hotels below) or pre-book an evening shuttle.
Inside the Venue
Entry to the festival is controlled: attendees must present their ticket (printed or on a mobile device) and valid photo ID at the gate . Everyone (age 18+) receives a wristband after passing security checks, and you must wear that band at all times. Bags and clothing are subject to search to enforce the festival’s rules. Security personnel, including off-duty police, patrol the main venue. Once inside, you will find wide open lawns under blue sky – no exclusive VIP lounges. The vibe is casual and communal. Key features inside the grounds are the stages (with large PA systems and professional stage lighting rigs), a central food & drink court, art installations and children’s activities sprinkled throughout the forested sections.
Food and drink options are plentiful and focus on local hawker cuisine, fine dining bites and craft beverages. Hawke’s Bay eateries are invited to run stalls – you might see everything from lamb kōwhao kebabs and smoked barbecue to vegetarian curries and fresh pastries. Local breweries and wineries often staff bars, so Aotearoa white wines, craft beer, cider and non-alcoholic summertime beverages are widely available . (The festival’s liquor license allows on-site sales; outside alcohol, HVAC cooking gear or glass bottles are banned .) Several water refill stations are set up – attendees are strongly encouraged to bring a refillable water bottle. Alcoholic drinks, coffee and snacks are sold at fixed bars and stalls; survey by the festival suggests most vendors accept both cards and cash, though having some New Zealand dollars is wise for smaller purchases.
Other amenities: Portable toilet blocks are placed conveniently (including wheelchair-accessible units). There is no formal coat-check or luggage storage; all belongings are your own responsibility. Free wifi is generally not provided, and mobile reception can be unreliable in the rural valley, so plan accordingly if you need connectivity. A small merchandise area is usually near the main stage, selling Outfield shirts, hats and posters. Medical and first-aid tents are staffed by volunteers, and festival security will quickly respond to any issues. Since Outfield takes place on farmland, it’s important to respect the environment: keep off any marked vegetation, use recycling bins, and follow staff instructions for crossing roads or streams on property. Attendees have called the atmosphere laid-back and friendly – it’s common to see people dancing in groups, sampling multiple stages, or wandering through the art displays between sets. Remember, this is an all-ages event: you may see toddlers splashing in a kiddie area and grandparents enjoying mellow acoustic sets alike.
Nearby Amenities
Though the festival itself feels rural, some conveniences are within easy reach. The tiny village of Te Awanga (a few minutes north of the site) has a general store with basic groceries, takeaway food and a bottle shop. For sit-down meals or late lunch before a concert, nearby winery restaurants are a draw – for example Elephant Hill Lodge (a high-end vineyard restaurant) and Clearview Estate (with a café/tasting hall) offer local Hawke’s Bay fare and deserve reservation ahead of time. Haumoana (just north of Te Awanga) has a dairy/takeaway and a few casual eateries. If you stay later in town, Havelock North village (15 minutes by car) has a large selection of cafés, pubs and restaurants (think artisan bakeries, wine bars, and New Zealand bistros). Hastings city and Napier (both ~20–25 min by road) offer full-service options: from art-deco downtown eateries in Napier to breweries and pubs in Hastings.
Lodging: There are few on-site campgrounds at Outfield itself, so most visitors find accommodation in Hastings, Napier or Havelock North. Hastings has hotels (Scenic Hotel, Bay Plaza, etc.) and motels, as well as Airbnb options. Napier’s Port Ahuriri & city center areas are about 20 km away and feature boutique lodgings (e.g. The Masonic, Crown Hotel) and seaside B&Bs. Closer to Te Awanga, a handful of lodges and holiday parks exist (e.g. Clive Motor Inn 15 min south, or camping grounds at Clifton Beach), but they book up early on festival weekend.
Nightlife: After the festival ends (around dusk), some people head into Napier or Hastings for late-night bars. Taxi or rideshare is practical (though expect surge pricing or waits). Napier’s craft-beer pubs (such as Pipi Bar or Stone House Brewery) and Hastings bars (Fork & Tap, The Thirsty Whale) are open late on weekends. However, keep in mind the festival site itself shuts down music by late evening for local noise rules, so plan your exit accordingly. A safe option is pre-booking a return shuttle or taxi – the festival often lists transport partners online.
What Makes This Venue Special
Outfield stands out as much for its character as for its schedule. First, the setting: it’s one of the few music festivals built around a cricket field in a vineyard valley, offering panoramic views of Hawke’s Bay’s iconic “Cape Coast” – from the nearby Te Mata Peak down to Surfers’ Point. The name “Outfield” itself comes from the location on the cricket outfield, giving large concerts an open-air arena feel . Architecturally, there are no permanent buildings – stages are assembled anew each year, decorated with buoys, flags and local crafts that reflect the region’s beach and winery culture. Walking the site is like a treasure hunt: you might discover giant felt art by Bernie Winky, interactive murals from Sophie Watkins or live painters at work among the trees .
Culturally, Outfield has a reputation for warmth and community. Founders are all local music promoters who “wanted to give back to Hawke’s Bay” by curating a homegrown festival . The result is a friendly, inclusive vibe where families, artists and fans intermingle. Even transport volunteers and bar staff are local youth or charities, reinforcing the community bond. The festival is bicoastal in flavor: it celebrates Māori culture (the Hawke’s Bay region’s Māori name “Te Matau-a-Māui” is used on site) and uses Te Reo terms (e.g. “tukana–teina” mentorship). Meanwhile, it honors contemporary New Zealand music – one year Che Fu & The Kratez (a legendary hip-hop/reggae outfit) led the bill , another saw Kiwi soul star Reb Fountain enthrall the crowd . Little wonder that visiting acts often praise the caring setup; as one artist put it, Outfield’s organizers “were really considerate of artists and creating a positive/safe environment” www.ticketfairy.com .
Finally, the local economic and cultural impact is meaningful. As Hawke’s Bay’s only major wintertime festival (and one of few summer festivals outside Napier/Hastings centers), it attracts visitors who also explore wineries and coastal attractions nearby. Retailers note the festival helps highlight Hawke’s Bay cuisine and crafts to a national audience. Outfield’s success also encourages the regional creative scene: winners of local music competitions (Rockquest) have shared stages with touring bands at Outfield, and many local bands count Outfield as a career milestone. In short, Outfield is cherished for being both an excellent festival production and a celebration of place — the Hawke’s Bay lifestyle of sun, sea and creativity woven into every performance .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Outfield is mostly flat grass and gravel paths, which is relatively wheelchair-friendly at the main areas (except the forest stage which is a rough lawn). The festival provides accessible toilets near the main crowd, and limited reserved parking is typically available close to the entrance. Those with mobility needs should email the organizers in advance for guidance. Keep in mind you’ll be on uneven ground, so sturdy shoes are recommended for everyone. What to Bring: Come prepared for all weather – Hawke’s Bay summer can mean hot sun or sudden drizzle. Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and perhaps sunglasses for midday, as well as a light rain jacket or warm layer for cooler evenings . Expect open fields, so a low camping chair or picnic blanket is useful for midday breaks. Earplugs can make sets more comfortable for children (or sensitive adults). Bring a refillable water bottle (there are water stations) and anything you need for comfort (sunscreen, small first-aid, etc.). Keep a valid photo ID on you (passport, NZ driver’s licence, Kiwi Access card) – the gate staff will check ID to verify age for 18+ . What NOT to Bring: Strictly no outside alcohol, glass bottles, drugs or animals . Drones, fireworks, speakers, lasers and weapons are prohibited. Also avoid large backpacks or suitcases; bags may be searched on entry , so a small daypack is best. If in doubt, check the official “Terms & Conditions” list – enforcement is firm. Festival organizers note that any contraband will be confiscated and not returned , and violators can be refused entry. Arrival and Timing: Plan to arrive by the opening hour (typically 12pm) to avoid queues at the gate and stake out a good viewing spot. Latecomers often face traffic delays or find only distant parking. Driving in takes a bit of time (especially from Napier, where summer traffic on SH2 can back up), so give yourself an extra half-hour on top of planned travel time. If you stay overnight nearby, satisfying crowd dispersal is easier. Because the festival ends earlier than some large events (around 10pm in recent years), most late-night restaurants and bars in Hastings/Napier will still be open if you’re headed into town afterward. Kids and Family: Outfield welcomes families – children 12 and under enter free (with a watching adult) www.ticketfairy.com . However, anyone under 18 must have a Youth ticket and be accompanied by a guardian over 30 . ID checks at the gate enforce this strictly: if a youth bought an adult ticket, or kids arrive without their parents, entry will be denied www.ticketfairy.com . Parents should set easy meeting spots (there are Info points and security tents) in case family members get separated. Remember, the area right in front of speakers can be very loud – it’s wise to enjoy big act performances from a staffed distance if very young kids are with you. The festival provides wristbands for children to write guardian contact details on, which is highly recommended. Local Laws: Outfield is an alcohol-licensed event (so ID is required for purchase or bar entry), but beyond the festival grounds normal NZ laws apply. Note that you must use road-side sidewalks (not walk on SH2) when getting to/from the site . Polite behavior is expected on the nearby public roads and farm tracks. New Zealand has strict drink-driving laws – if you plan to drink, arrange a designated driver or taxi. Insider Extras: Many attendees arrive early (even a few days ahead) to explore local vineyards; consider booking a wine tour or beach visit around the festival. Follow Outfield’s social accounts for pop-up info (e.g. surprise acoustic sets or artist meet-ups). Participate in later festival traditions like sharing a photo at Outfield’s signature weather vane art or taking a “group wave” photo on the hill. And above all, treat the venue like a peaceful countryside spot – clean up litter and stay on marked paths to help ensure the festival can return year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tickets cost and where can I buy them?
Tickets are sold online only through the festival’s official channels. Prices vary by release phase; for example, early releases in past years started around NZ$100–120 for adults, rising to about NZ$134+ fees for late purchases www.ticketfairy.com . Family and group discounts are common (e.g. 5-for-4 bundles www.ticketfairy.com ). Youth (13–17) tickets are cheaper (around $79 in 2023 www.ticketfairy.com ) and kids 12 & under are free www.ticketfairy.com . Watch the Outfield website or social media in late year for the ticket sale announcement, and buy early since tickets often sell out fast.
Who can attend Outfield Festival (age restrictions)?
The festival is open to all ages, but with rules. Adults 18+ always need valid photo ID (passport or NZ driver’s licence typically) . Anyone under 18 must hold a youth ticket and be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 30 . If a young person arrives without a guardian or tries to use the wrong ticket type, entry will be refused (no refunds in that case) www.ticketfairy.com . Children 12 and under enter free when with their adult ticket-holders. Be sure to purchase the correct ticket for each person’s age range.
Is seating reserved or general admission?
Outfield has no reserved seating – it’s all general admission. The main stages are on open grass fields, so attendees stand or sit on the lawn (you can bring a blanket or low chair). Viewpoints are first-come; closer to the stage means more crowd and sound, farther back gives space to relax. All stages (including the forest-side Art Valley) are free-roam, so you can move about between acts to get the best sightlines or shade.
What should I bring and what is not allowed?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a raincoat or warm layer (weather can change), sturdy shoes, and a refillable water bottle. A small fold-up chair or picnic rug is handy for sitting on the grass. Carry your valid ID, ticket (mobile or print) and enough cash/cards for food and drink. Do not bring any outside alcohol, glass bottles, illegal drugs, weapons, or fireworks – these will be confiscated. Large backpacks, drones, or Barbie rigs are prohibited. (Essential toiletries, one small clear plastic bottle for water or sunscreen, and basic first-aid are fine.)
What are the food and drink options at Outfield?
A wide variety of local Hawke’s Bay food vendors and bars operate on-site. You’ll find specialty dishes (from barbecue ribs to vegan curry) and New Zealand wines, craft beers and non-alcoholic refreshments available for purchase . All food stalls and bars accept credit/debit cards (having some cash is still handy). Outside food is generally discouraged since there’s ample onsite variety – however family snacks for younger kids are fine. Alcohol is sold by vendors (licensed area); outside alcohol or glass containers are strictly banned .
Are pets allowed at Outfield Festival?
No. Outfield’s rules explicitly forbid pets or domestic animals . The only exceptions are service animals for those with disabilities (and even then, notify the organizers in advance). No other animals (including dogs, cats, etc.) are permitted, due to the crowds and safety reasons.
What transportation and parking options are available?
The festival address is 32 Gordon Road, Te Awanga (near Haumoana) . There is a small parking field adjacent to the site, but spaces are very limited , so car-pooling or shuttle buses is recommended. (Organizers often sell combo tickets that include bus transport from Napier/Hastings or camping sites .) If you do drive, arrive early to secure a spot or prepare to park further away and walk. Rideshare and taxis can drop off/pick up at the entrance – schedule these in advance for post-event return. Public buses do not run to the site directly; the nearest regular bus stops are in Haumoana village, which still leaves a long walk or another transit leg.
Is camping available on-site?
No. There is no overnight camping allowed in the festival grounds or carpark . Instead, Outfield offers off-site camping packages at a separate nearby campground. These often include a free shuttle bus to the festival each day . Motorhomes and tents must stay in the designated camping area, and a valid camping ticket (or hardstanding site ticket) is required. Note: any camping gear left behind at the festival (off-site) doesn’t guarantee storage at the concert venue.
What happens if it rains – does the festival still run?
Outfield is an outdoor festival and runs rain or shine . Unless the organizers announce a severe weather cancellation (rare), expect the full program even if there’s a shower. New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, so be ready. Bring waterproof clothing or a poncho (and water-friendly footwear) to stay comfortable if it drizzles . The site has some covered areas (stage roofs, marquee bars), but mostly you’ll be in the open – note that the ground can become muddy after heavy rain.
Are there facilities for disabled visitors?
Yes. The festival layout is mostly flat and in 2023 included disabled parking near the gate. Portable accessible toilets are provided. Ramps to main stage viewing areas are typically available. However, note that some areas (like the forested Art Valley) have uneven grass paths. It’s a good idea to contact Outfield staff before attending if you need special accommodations; they can advise on the best access routes or reserved spaces.
When do gates open and performances begin?
Gates typically open around noon on festival day. For instance, Outfield 2024 opened at 12:00pm . Performances on the smaller stages may begin shortly after opening. Main headliners usually play in the late afternoon to early evening slots. It’s smart to plan a midday arrival so you can find parking, handle entry and settle in before key acts start.
Will I see cell phone coverage at the site?
Partial at best. Te Awanga is semi-rural, so mobile reception (3G/4G) can be spotty inside the venue. Near the road edges there is usually a signal (for example, Spark and Vodafone often work), but deeper in the forest zone it may drop out. Do not rely on mobile internet for tickets or navigation once inside. If you need connectivity, save any needed info offline in advance. Some attendees use portable battery chargers as phone drainage can be high at festivals.
